3 Spending Habits of Thoughtful Consumers:

Shopping is a great American pastime, but how can you make sure you’re not supporting exploitative companies? Here are a few simple tips on how to become a more ethical consumer:

Buy Local. Shopping at local businesses is generally more sustainable than having something shipped from a distance. You could also consider buying items secondhand, which helps lower the demand for labor and resources to produce new goods.

Buy Less. Curb frivolous spending by implementing a “no-buy week,” logging out of online retailers or leaving your credit cards at home. When you do make a purchase, search for high-quality products and items that are easy to reuse, repair or recycle.

Buy Smart. Look for labels such as the B Corporation Certification, Fair Trade Certified or USDA Organic, which indicate that a company is held to a higher standard of social and environmental practices.

If you find yourself shopping simply because you’re bored, try to spend your free time reading, journaling, exercising, or volunteering instead.